Neurorehabilitation

The UT Neurorehabilitation program is directed by Nneka L. Ifejika-Jones, M.D.

Dr. Ifejika-Jones was recently granted an NIH K-award to study "Clinical Outcomes after Ischemic Stroke: The Use of Intravenous Alteplase and Post-Stroke Complications as Predictors of Discharge Disposition."

Trained in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, but a full-time member of the Neurology faculty and co-director of ther inpatient stroke rehabilitation program, Dr Ifejika-Jones brings unique skills to the SPOTRIAS network. She is extremely knowledgeable about rehabilitation methodology and clinical care. Most of our acute stroke research does not include consideration of the factors that take place after the first 24- 48 hours of hospitalization, or studies on how our acute therapies affect outcome. This will be the focus of Dr Ifejika-Jones’ research; the multiplicative effects of post-stroke complications and the use of acute stroke treatments, such as IV Alteplase, in relation to clinical outcomes, evidenced by discharge disposition. This NIH Diversity Supplement to SPOTRIAS provides the perfect vehicle to achieve this goal, and we have an excellent environment to provide that training. Dr Ifejika-Jones and Dr. Grotta have worked out a mentoring plan that will propel her into a unique role within the stroke clinical research community—a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) specialist who is an expert on stroke care and outcomes, and who is committed and trained to conduct clinical research in this area, with a particular focus on the impact of stroke on African Americans. Health promotion and disease prevention are key factor in augmenting the increase in cerebrovascular disease. Dr. Ifejika-Jones will continue community outreach through participation in Health Fairs for Stroke in the Houston area, targeting patients at increased risk.